KARACHI: Speakers at a programme on 21 Feb expressed concern over growing social acceptance of rape cases and demanded effective implementation of the anti-rape law.
A dialogue on ‘Surge in rape cases: silence of society, lack of institutional and judicial response and commitment’ was organised by the Sindh Women Lawyers Alliance (SWLA) at its office, where a comprehensive discussion was held on the rising incidents in rape cases and the justice system.
There was concern expressed over the growing social acceptance of such incidents, emphasising that the protection of survivors must be prioritised.
It was stressed that images of survivors and their families should not be published and victim blaming must be avoided.
It was recommended that laws related to women’s rights and human rights be mandatorily included in academic curricula, especially in law institutions.
Awareness regarding relevant laws should be provided to law enforcement agencies, judges, lawyers, and commissions established for women and human rights.
Effective implementation of the Anti-Rape Act 2021 (Investigation & Trial) should be implemented in letter and spirit.
The government was urged to compile comprehensive official data on rape cases and take effective measures to address them.
In conclusion, it was demanded that full legal assistance, transparent investigation and timely justice be ensured in the cases of Asia Khoso and Sara Baloch from Jacobabad, and Sabreen Pathan who was murdered in Jamshoro.
The government was urged to take concrete steps to prevent such incidents.
The dialogue was attended by SWLA Chairperson Shazia Nizamani, General Secretary Rubina Chandio, Marvi Kalhoro, WAF Karachi representatives Kausar S. Khan, Faiza, Ifat Ara, Seemi Kamal and Safia Lakhho, Sapna Sewani, Amar Haseeb Panhwar, Zulfiqar Rajpar, Faiz Siddiqui, as well as academic members, civil society representatives, and bar members.
Published in Dawn, February 22nd, 2026.
